King’s selected for a second year for female coach mentorship program

For the second year in a row, the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) has selected The King’s University to be part of its Female Apprentice Coach Program for 2018-19. This Canada-wide program selects just 12 university students each year and awards $4,000 as part of the grant.

Jenna Smith, assistant coach to King’s women’s volleyball team, is this year’s recipient and will be mentored by Director of Athletics Grace Scott. Scott and Smith share a sports history spanning a decade and a great deal of mutual respect.

“In my first year of club volleyball I had the privilege of playing for my current mentor-coach, Grace Scott,” said Smith. “It’s somewhat fate that my first season as a player over 10 years ago, and now my first season as an assistant coach, is with the same incredible woman.”

“I am very excited to have Jenna join our coaching staff as part of the CCAA Female Apprentice Coach Program,” said Scott. “Having coached Jenna in U16 club volleyball a number of years ago, I was impressed with her passion for the game, desire to improve, and tenacity to work hard for her team at such a young age.”

The CCAA program provides funding to partner an apprentice coach with a mentor to develop new female coaches in CCAA sports of basketball, volleyball, soccer, badminton, and cross-country running. This partnership gives student athletes hands-on leadership experience in coaching, opportunities for professional development, and a solid foundation for a coaching career.

Scott looks forward seeing Smith work with King’s student-athletes as a coach. “She is not only a gifted athlete, but also a tremendous leader and has been a captain on numerous teams. Jenna is a person of amazing character and leadership ability, and I am confident she’ll help take our team to the next level this year!"

As Jenna continues to complete her after-degree in education, with the goal of being a teacher for junior high or high school students, she sees a direct connection in bringing her passion for the sport to the women’s volleyball team. “Coaching with Grace and The King’s University will be an opportunity for me to not only continue my love for the game, but to also grow my ability as a coach, teacher, and mentor,” Smith said. “Through my love for competition, speaking the truth, and leading through action, I hope I will be an asset to this team.”

Comments

On Jul 11, 2018, Dorothy Koch said

Congratulations- King’s continues to show the richness and diversity of their students.

On Jul 13, 2018, Terry smith said

We are so proud of you Jenna and so happy you’ll be working with Grace. It’s a win - win situation. Go Kings Go !
Much love from your greatest fans - Mom and Dad xoxo